15+ Years Behind the Scenes
Over the past 15+ years working in the wedding industry, my primary role has been that of a second photographer.
While I've photographed weddings as a lead photographer and associate photographer, second shooting has become a role I genuinely love and one that has shaped much of my experience within the wedding industry.
For most wedding days, a standard 8-hour wedding package includes two photographers: the lead photographer and the second shooter. The lead photographer is the person a couple seeks out, connects with, and ultimately hires to document their wedding day.
The second shooter works alongside them, helping tell the complete story from a different perspective.
Typically, while the lead photographer is with the bride during the morning preparations, I'll spend time with the groom and groomsmen, documenting their side of the story.
Throughout the day, I'm constantly looking for the moments happening just outside the main frame—guest reactions during the ceremony, quiet interactions between family members, laughter between friends, and the little details that help tell a fuller story.
One of my favorite aspects of second shooting is the freedom to observe. Without the responsibility of directing the timeline or leading family formals, I can focus on anticipating moments and capturing genuine emotions as they unfold naturally.
Honestly, becoming a career second shooter was never part of my original plan. It simply happened over time. The work came naturally, I enjoyed the role, and I found myself working alongside some incredibly talented photographers whose work I deeply admire.
Second shooting has also allowed me to photograph multiple weddings in a single weekend without experiencing the same level of burnout that can sometimes come with leading every wedding.
Each event introduces me to new couples, new venues, and new creative opportunities while allowing me to continue doing what I love most: documenting meaningful moments.
Over the years, I've had the privilege of working with many amazing photographers and serving as both a second photographer and associate photographer.
Looking back through my images reminds me just how much I love being part of a wedding day—whether I'm leading the story or helping tell it from behind the scenes.
I am currently working on put together a gallery of my favorite images captured while second shooting and working as an associate photographer, but for now [Click Here] to view Riley and Josh's Wedding I was the associate shooter for, at the stunning Kalmia Garden at Gastler Farm in Durham, Connecticut.
These photographs represent countless wedding days, wonderful collaborations, and a role that has become an important part of my journey as a photographer. And while I've spent much of my career behind the scenes, I love knowing that I've helped countless couples experience a wedding day that felt like a touch of magic.